Meningitis is viral and thus it is caused mainly by virus. However certain bacteria are also responsible for causing the disease. Despite the fact that Meningitis symptoms are quite difficult to recognise at its early stage, yet there are certain general Symptoms of Meningitis which may be similar as compared to many more common illnesses, such as flu. The symptoms of meningitis depend and vary according to age. A child shows signs and symptoms on the ground of the infection. However, bacterial meningitis can be very serious, thus it is necessary to diagnose an infection as soon as detected.

The common symptoms of meningitis are identified to be headache and neck stiffness. This is further associated with fever, confusion or altered consciousness, and an inability to tolerate light (photophobia) or loud noises (phonophobia). Small children show other kinds of nonspecific symptoms such as irritability and drowsiness. Yet, one of the foremost symptoms of meningitis can be considered as a rash. A rash present may indicate a particular cause of meningitis for instance, meningitis caused by meningococcal bacteria may be accompanied by a characteristic rashes. These rashes are more commonly seen as a reason for Meningococcal meningitis. This rash is the result of a form of septicemia which is an infection in the bloodstream.

Septicemia develops when the meningococcus bacteria in the bloodstream multiply uncontrollably. The bacteria release toxins into the blood that break down the walls of the blood vessels, allowing blood to leak into the skin. This leaking is the result of characteristic rash, which are known as hemorrhagic rash. Rashes appear anywhere on the body in the areas around eyes and often between the toes. The rash are cluster of tiny blood spots, which look like pin pricks in the skin. These spots gradually grow and become multiple areas of bleeding, resembling fresh bruises under the skin surface.

Symptoms of Meningitis are seen quickly, especially in children, and involve the combination of fever; headache, often severe malaise, associated with vomiting, stiff neck and back. Moreover, changes in consciousness, from irritability through confusion to drowsiness, stupor, and coma are also seen in a person suffering from meningitis. An infant though features certain unusual symptoms that include a high-pitched cry, a bulging or tight fontanel (soft spot), seizure or loss of consciousness.

The symptoms of bacterial meningitis develop quite suddenly, on the other hand symptoms for viral meningitis may develop all of a sudden or gradually over a period of time. The symptoms of viral meningitis, for instance, start after mumps. Meningitis can also lead to brain swelling causing further disability. Other major Symptoms of Meningitis include drowsiness, confusion and little bit tiredness.